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Blessed Joan Capdevila Costa

Blessed

Martyr

Post-Congregation

Feast Day: 25 July; 1 February as one of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs

Born: 30 November 1883 in Sovellas, Girona, Spain

Died: 25 July 1936 in Barcelona, Spain

Beatified: 21 October 2017 by Pope; beatification celebrated at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain, presided by Archbishop Angelo Amato

Venerated: 21 December 2016 by Pope Francis (decree of martyrdom)

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Biography

Blessed Joan Capdevila Costa, also known as Blessed Joan Costa i Capdevila, was born on 30 November 1883 in Sovellas, Girona, Spain. He was a member of the Claretians, a religious congregation founded by Saint Anthony Mary Claret. Joan Capdevila Costa professed in the Congregation on 16 July 1901, dedicating himself to the service of God and his fellow men.

During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, which began in 1936, Blessed Joan Capdevila Costa was martyred for his unwavering faith. He faced persecution and violence due to his commitment to his religious calling. On 25 July 1936, he bravely embraced his martyrdom, giving his life for his beliefs in Barcelona, Spain.

On 21 December 2016, Pope Francis declared Joan Capdevila Costa venerable, recognizing his heroic virtue and the courage he demonstrated in the face of adversity. This decree of martyrdom acknowledged his martyrdom as a supreme act of love and devotion to God.

Following his beatification by Pope Francis on 21 October 2017, a special ceremony was held at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, presided over by Archbishop Angelo Amato. This notable event marked the formal acknowledgment of Joan Capdevila Costa's sanctity and his inclusion in the list of the blessed. His beatification serves as an inspiration to the faithful, encouraging them to persevere in their faith even in the midst of trials and persecution.

Though specific details of Blessed Joan Capdevila Costa's life and activities are not provided in the given information, his dedication to the Claretians and his ultimate sacrifice during the Spanish Civil War speak volumes about his unwavering commitment to his religious vocation. The exemplary life he led and the legacy of martyrdom he left behind make him a beacon of faith and inspiration for Catholics around the world. On the liturgical calendar, he is honored and remembered on 25 July, the day of his martyrdom, as well as on 1 February, alongside the other 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs.